Floods happen in Durham Region, and climate change is bringing wetter and wilder weather to the area. This weather can result in uncertain, unstable, and more extreme flooding conditions affecting everyone year-round, even if you don’t live near water. Flooding can cause private and public property damage, interruptions to public transportation, unsafe road conditions, financial losses, and health and mental health impacts.
What does it mean to be flood ready? Unfortunately, few Canadians are aware of their flood risk and prepared for flood protection. A 2020 study found that only 6% of Canadians surveyed knew that they lived in flood-prone areas.
Download the flood ready infographic. For an accessible version of the content, continue below.
Steps everyone can take
Learn about flood messaging and watershed conditions from your local
conservation authority.
Have an emergency plan and 72-hour emergency kit for you and your family.
Get flood ready at home
Complete a flood protection check-up of your home.
Talk to your insurance broker about flood insurance.
Learn about cost-effective home protection options.
Keep valuables at a higher elevation and move hazardous materials like paint
off the ground.
Complete regular maintenance like cleaning eaves troughs and downspouts, testing sump pumps, and keeping floor drains clear.
Speak with neighbours and create a plan to support each other in an emergency.
Get flood ready at work
Have an emergency plan, like a business continuity plan.
Talk about your plan with staff and prepare everyone to safely navigate flooding at and on the way to and from work.
Learn about ways to make your property more resilient to flooding.
Do's and don'ts in a flood
Avoid travelling on roads that are near water, bridges, ravines, embankments, low laying areas and any bodies of water.
Do not drive through, stand, or walk in any moving water.
Be careful of downed power lines outside and damage to electrical systems indoors.
Don’t eat food that has come in contact with flood water.
Make sure personal items are secured and easily accessible in case you need to evacuate.
Disconnect electrical appliances and do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet.
